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Make realistic resolutions this year

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Why is it that we need to start a New Year to set goals for our health and wellness? I guess it's the same reason most people start a "diet" on a Monday or on the first of the month. But do we really need the start of a new week, month, or year to begin seeking positive changes? Do we need to wait for digestive problems or, even worse, a health scare to develop?

If you know there is something you "should be" doing, or better yet, "want to" do to feel better, then now is the perfect time for you to start. If you need a new year to set a "resolution," you've got it! The point is, just get going and set some goals for yourself!

Now, there are a few things to remember. Goals, or resolutions, shouldn't be so lofty that you can't achieve or maintain them.

They need to be realistic. Remember, consistent small steps all add up to help you achieve your goal, or the end result you desire. Unrealistic, huge steps are often unattainable because they just don't fit into your life and are too hard to maintain.

Next, try to make your goals around things you "want to" do. Having the "have to" mentality is like being forced, which can lead to decreased motivation. Turn those "have to" goals into things you "want to" or "desire to" do. For example, if you know you need to lose weight, the "have to" mentality can make it harder. Instead, a goal such as fitting into those pants that no longer button or that dress that won't zip may be more motivating, since it is something you "want to" do.

If you have a health condition that you need to set goals around, you can work with your health care provider to try to reduce or improve upon factors contributing to that condition. In this case, the "desire to" get better and feel better can be very motivating.

Next, keep it simple! Complicated goals can drain us of energy and we may not stick with them because they require too much effort. Some of the best goals are simple, in that they effortlessly fit into your day. Guess what? Those are the ones that are most likely to be achieved. Examples include: drinking water instead of soda, eating more vegetables, eating less processed foods, moving more, and cooking more. Again, each of these doesn't need to be complicated or extreme. The simpler the better. For example, by "moving more," you don't have to sign up for the next marathon. How about walking the dog? Or playing with your children? Another example is eating more greens. Instead of having fries on the side, how about a salad?

Another thing I like to encourage my clients to do around goal setting is some type of stress reduction. Let's face it, the majority of us are stressed out at some point during the day. Chronic excess stress really is counterproductive to health and wellness. Some things that can help, include finding time to relax and doing things you enjoy, including all the things you've been putting off for way too long. Or how about spending time with friends, sharing hugs and laughter? Other things you can do are taking time for a vacation or even a nice long bath. Stress is inevitable, managing it is what counts. Resolutions, or goals don't need to be over the top, they just have to address your needs. Making them simple and meaningful helps to achieve success.

Kelly Ford, MSPT, AADP Certified Health Coach is founder of Symmetry Within LLC, a company which provides Health Coaching, Wellness Consultation and Education Services. Contact her at www.symmetrywithin.com.

, including this column, published the first Sunday of each Month.

This is an area that health coaches (a.k.a. me!) can really support you with. If you have an outcome or goal that you would like to achieve, I can help you find the steps necessary to make it happen in a way that easily "fits" into your life. We keep it simple and fun, motivating you to move forward. If you need support, please contact me today at www.symmetrywithin.com.

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